My Attitude Determines Everything (M.A.D.E.)

Community-Building & Leadership for Girls  

Access Youth listened to young women in our schools who were struggling with mistrust, disconnection, low self-esteem, and rising violent altercations. They told us what they needed: a safe space to reflect, connect, and grow. So we created M.A.D.E.—a sisterhood designed to build self-worth, camaraderie, and the social-emotional and leadership skills young women need to thrive. 

What started as a small support group has grown into a powerful movement. Today, M.A.D.E. serves 250+ girls across all eight partner schools with weekly meetings during the school year and innovative summer programming that deepens connections and prepares students for life beyond high school. 

What We Do

  • Weekly groups with journaling, book clubs, accountability circles, self-reflection, culinary and recreation activities, and positive peer affirmations 

  • Life skills curriculum covering financial literacy, communication skills, and college and career readiness—helping students apply for scholarships, grants, and jobs 

  • M.A.D.E. Summer Sisterhood Experience for high school girls to connect, set goals, and explore emotional well-being and self-empowerment 

  • Middle School M.A.D.E. Conference, planned by high school M.A.D.E. leaders, bringing together 6th-8th graders for leadership development, self-expression, and bridge-building between historically rival schools 

  • Annual M.A.D.E. Retreat—a 3-day, 2-night immersive experience to celebrate progress and inspire students to keep striving for their dreams 

The Impact 

M.A.D.E. has transformed from a conflict-prevention intervention into a thriving sisterhood that elevates and empowers young women across DC and builds community across rival schools and communities fraught with violence. Participants build trust, leadership skills, and community—replacing conflict with connection. Year after year, M.A.D.E. seniors have a 100% graduation rate––and participants are elected to student government and serve as Valedictorians. Through year-round programming, M.A.D.E. gives young women the confidence, tools, and sisterhood they need to graduate, pursue higher education, and step into their futures with purpose.